September 16-17, 2006

Herbert leads blot

Fall was definitely in the air as the kindred gathered together to celebrate Winter Finding. Frozen Head State Park was the venue as it was last month. Most of the group had arrived by late afternoon on Saturday with a few late-comers arriving just before dark. In all there were 17 adults and 7 kids/teenagers - the largest group in quite a while. The kindred welcomed back Lars and his family after a long absence. It was good to renew old friendships.

The usual camping spot was already taken by another group so the kindred had to set up a bit farther down the road this time. It worked out fine though with just enough flat spots to accommodate all of the tents. Torches lit most of the path along the creek bank, although Johnny found a quick way down to the water when he stepped off the edge in the dark.

Sumbel started a bit after sundown around the campfire. It was a large circle due to the size of the group. Fortunately it was not too cold. The normal three rounds plus open sumbel lasted several hours. Many offered a few words in memory of 9-11 and of Steve Irwin's recent passing. Afterward it was time for kippers and some of the newcomers dug in with relish.

The next morning dawned clear and sunny with a nice breeze that helped to clear the dew. After breakfast some of the group hiked up to Debord Falls where they skipped rocks in the pool below. On the way back some of the hikers crossed swords with some yellow jackets. The wounded were treated and made their way back to camp.

Around noon it was time for blot. Herbert lead the kindred in an Odin-blot since Winter Finding is a time of change and the Old Man seems more active as the cold weather approaches. He is after all, the leader of the Wild Hunt. Herbert retold the saga of Hrolf Kraki and reminded the kindred to be watchful of Odin's guises and not to dismiss his offers of help. The kindred runes were passed around - each member drew a rune from the bag in the hopes of an answer to a pressing question.

The feast followed the blot right away and needless to say there were all sorts of great dishes. Among them were a chicken in sour cream casserole, chili, bratwurst, beans and franks, ravioli, cucumbers in dill sauce, many salads, pastries, pineapple upside down cake, and chess pie. The afternoon was spent in conversation in the beautiful weather. Eventually the group packed up and wended their ways homeward.

Click here to view some photos from the weekend